Our country cannot remain divided Averof tells people of Kormakitis

Our country cannot remain divided, Disy leader and presidential candidate Averof Neophytou said on Sunday visiting the community of Kormakitis in the north.

“Neither our roots nor our children deserve not to try again to reunite our country,” he said.

Neophytou said his “political father” former president and Disy founder Glafkos Clerides taught him to respect and love the Maronite community and in his government that took the decision to create the first Maronite school.

Referring to the legislative initiative to restore the rights of religious groups, he said that he had submitted on behalf of Disy a bill that provides representatives of the three religious groups will have a role and a say in their communities in matters of culture, education and everything that concerns communities and religious groups.

He also called it a “national duty” for people to re-inhabit Kormakitis.

“This is patriotism and not an act for some to criticise. Because maybe I couldn’t be here today, to see this passion, this will to reunite our country,” Neophytou said.

In 2017 a decision was taken to allow Maronites to return to their villages in the north, including Kormakitis. A primary school is due to open there later this year.

“I confirm the appreciation of the Maronite community to you and wish you every success in your struggle for the presidency of the Republic,” Maronite representative Antonis Skoullos said.